How Do You Reward Yourself? Economize?

ANCHOR: How do you reward yourself when something good happens? And where do you economize when times are tight?

ANCHOR: Money and real estate expert Ilyce Glink is here with some suggestions. Good morning.

ILYCE: Whether they’re rewarding themselves or trying to economize, many Americans end up doing the same thing — spending money. We went on Michigan Avenue and asked some consumers what they do to reward themselves.

ILYCE: Of course, rewarding yourself doesn’t have to be about spending money. Consider these rewarding, but inexpensive treats:
Window shopping
Making a favorite meal
Hot bath
Chicago museums on the free day
Lincoln Park Zoo (free everyday)

ILYCE: What do you do to economize?

ILYCE: Knowing where you can tighten the belt is important, particularly if we are heading into a recession:
Scratch the take-out
Cook from scratch instead
Write down every cent you spent
Kick a bad habit
Vacation at home.